Angola assumes chair of AU Peace, Security Council

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - Angola has assumed the rotating presidency of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU) for the month of April.

Angola's Ambassador to Ethiopia and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Arcanjo do Nacimento, is the new chair of the body.

Nacimento assumes office at a time of continuing tension in many parts of the continent, including Darfur in Sudan, Madagascar and Mali, where soldiers recently toppled the country's elected President.

Thus, the presidency of Angola will be marked by the management and search for solutions to these major crises.

Angola was elected to the Council during the 18th Summit of AU in January 2012 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for a two-year tenure.

Also serving as members of the council are Libya, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Egypt, Djibouti, Cameroon, Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Cote d'Ivoire, Gambia, Guinea, and Lesotho.

The Peace and Security Council of the AU is tasked with promoting security and
stability on the continent, securing protection and welfare of the population and ensuring peace.
-0- PANA ANGOP/SEG 3April2012